Every so often, a crisis emerges that compels politicians to mobilize, promising to address pressing issues, such as, for examples, integrity, civic participation, and government transparency, just to mention a few. Yet, despite the urgency of these issues, they often seem to be mere echoes of promises unfulfilled – like “balls that have been dropped” or “cans being kicked down the road.” In this cycle, the credibility of politics and politicians has plummeted to an all-time low, leaving citizens disillusioned and disengaged.
The reality is stark: the systemic problems we face in governance are not new, and with some exceptions are only getting bigger and more complicated. They are the result of neglect, inertia, and a failure to prioritize the very principles that underpin a healthy democracy. When integrity bureaus are considered in response to scandals, when civic participation programs are launched without genuine commitment, and when government openness is touted but not practiced, we witness a pattern of behavior that erodes public trust.
This pervasive cynicism is dangerous. It breeds apathy in society and among its various constituents, who feel their voices do not matter. It creates an environment where the most vulnerable are further marginalized, as the political elite continue to operate in silos detached from the realities faced by everyday citizens. The gap between politicians and the populace widens, fostering a culture where accountability is an afterthought rather than a foundational principle.
To disrupt this cycle, we (all pillars of society) must demand more than just rhetoric. Actions speak louder than words, and it is through meaningful, sustained efforts that we can begin to restore faith in our political institutions. Politicians need to prioritize transparency – not as a checkbox on a campaign platform, but as a core value guiding every decision. This means establishing genuine channels for public input, listening to constituents, and acting on their concerns.
Moreover, integrity cannot be an optional trait for politicians; it must be non-negotiable. This requires robust mechanisms for accountability that extend beyond the occasional investigation or public statement. We need systems in place that hold leaders accountable for their actions and decisions, fostering a culture where integrity is expected and rewarded.
Civic participation should be more than a buzzword. It ought to be a fundamental aspect of governance where citizens are not merely passive observers but active participants. This can be achieved through educational initiatives that empower individuals to engage with their local governance and through policies that facilitate direct involvement in decision-making processes.
Ultimately, the restoration of credibility in politics is possible, but it will require a collective effort. Citizens must demand transparency and accountability, while politicians must commit to genuine engagement and integrity. This is not just about addressing the issues of the moment; it’s about building a political landscape where trust can flourish, and where every citizen feels their voice matters.
The time for action is now. If we are to break free from the cycle of disillusionment, we must hold ourselves accountable to a higher standard – one where politics serves the people, not the other way around. The future of our democracy depends on it.
Michael F. Willem, MBA
Ex-Minister/Commissioner & Governance advocate
Curaçao
